EARLY NEUROLOGICAL COMPLICATIONS FOLLOWING VARICELLA: INITIAL FINDINGS FROM NALANDA MEDICAL COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL, PATNA, INDIA.

Abstract

Background:

Varicella infection, commonly known as chickenpox, can lead to various neurological complications. The study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, imaging findings, and outcomes of neurological complications following varicella infection.

Methods:

An observational study was conducted involving sixty patients presenting with neurological abnormalities subsequent to acute varicella infection were included. Data collection involved comprehensive neurological examinations and investigations, including imaging studies and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Treatment outcomes were assessed through a multi-disciplinary approach and follow-up evaluations over a 3-month period. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0, emphasizing descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results:

The participants had a mean age of 38 years and 60% males. Encephalitis (41.7%), meningitis (25.0%), and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (16.7%) were the most prevalent complications. Complications peaked 30 days after varicella infection. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) improved Guillain-Barré Syndrome more than plasmapheresis. Complication severity increased neurological symptom duration. In 60 patients, demographic characteristics were significantly associated with post-varicella neurological sequelae. Older patients had increased encephalitis and meningitis risks (p < 0.05), but gender did not significantly affect risk (p > 0.05). Post-infection complications peaked within 30 days and then decreased (p < 0.01). IVIG was more effective than plasmapheresis in treating Guillain-Barré Syndrome (p < 0.05). Corticosteroids improved cerebellitis symptoms faster (p < 0.01). Prolonged symptoms were linked to severe consequences (p < 0.001), increasing our understanding of post-varicella neurological sequelae.

Conclusion:

The study underscores the diverse spectrum of neurological complications following varicella infection. Early recognition and appropriate management are essential for favorable outcomes. The findings contribute to better understanding and management strategies for these complications.

Recommendations:

Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to validate these findings and explore additional prognostic factors. Multicenter studies could provide broader insights into the epidemiology and outcomes of varicella-associated neurological complications.